Resolving phylogeny, evolution and species delimitation in challenging Australasian orchid lineages using phylogenomic approaches

Title of Project

Resolving phylogeny, evolution and species delimitation in challenging Australasian orchid lineages using phylogenomic approaches

Name of Advisor/s

Katharina Nargar

College

College of Science & Engineering

Summary of Project

Orchidaceae is one of the two largest vascular plant families, with its highest diversity in the tropics. In Australia, orchids are among the ten most diverse plant families, and harbour many threatened species. This project aims to 1) clarify phylogenetic relationships in poorly understood Australasian orchid lineages using phylogenomic approaches, 2) examine the evolution of morphological and ecological characters 3) examine possible drivers of their diversification, and 4) elucidate their spatio-temporal evolution. The study will contribute to a reassessment of controversial Australasian orchid systematics, and will underpin effective conservation management for rare orchid species.

Key Words

phylogenomics, plant diversification, evolution, systematics, Australia, Orchidaceae

Would suit an applicant who

Has an interest in plant molecular systematics and evolutionary biology. Experience with molecular phylogenetic analyses and bioinformatics are advantageous.